If you’re a fan of convenience foods, you know that Totino’s pizzas are a staple in many households. But while they’re easy to cook, there are many ways to elevate them from a basic frozen meal to a gourmet experience. Whether you’re a college student looking for a quick dinner or a busy professional needing a satisfying meal, this guide will show you how to cook Totino’s pizzas like a pro. From cooking times to topping tips, we’ve got you covered.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- You can cook a Totino’s pizza in the microwave, but be aware of the potential for a soggy center.
- Thawing the pizza before cooking can help prevent this problem, but it’s not strictly necessary.
- Adding extra toppings can be done, but be mindful of the pizza’s weight and cooking time.
- To make your Totino’s pizza crisper, try cooking it on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Leftover pizza can be frozen for later use, but be aware of the risk of freezer burn.
- The best temperature for cooking Totino’s pizzas is between 375°F and 425°F.
- You can cook Totino’s pizzas on a grill, but be aware of the risk of burning the crust.
Cooking Totino’s Pizzas in the Microwave
When cooking Totino’s pizzas in the microwave, be aware that the cooking time will depend on the power level of your microwave. As a general rule, cook the pizza on high for 2-3 minutes, then check the crust and toppings. If the crust is not golden brown, continue cooking in 30-second increments until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Be careful not to overcook the pizza, as this can cause the crust to become dry and crispy. One trick to prevent sogginess is to place a paper towel over the pizza while it cooks – this will help absorb excess moisture and promote a crisper crust.
Tips for Adding Extra Toppings
One of the best things about Totino’s pizzas is that you can customize them with your favorite toppings. To add extra toppings, simply place them on the pizza after it’s been cooked, then return it to the microwave for an additional 10-15 seconds. Be mindful of the weight of the toppings – too many and the pizza may become soggy or fall apart. Some popular topping combinations include pepperoni and mushrooms, sausage and onions, or bacon and bell peppers.
Making Your Totino’s Pizza Crisper
While Totino’s pizzas are great straight out of the microwave, they can be elevated to a whole new level with a few simple tricks. One of the best ways to make your pizza crisper is to cook it on a pizza stone or baking sheet. This will help distribute heat evenly and promote a crispy crust. To do this, simply place the pizza on the stone or baking sheet, then cook it in the microwave for an additional 30-60 seconds. You can also try broiling the pizza for an additional 1-2 minutes to give it a golden brown crust.
Freezing Leftover Pizza
If you have leftover pizza that you don’t want to eat right away, you can freeze it for later use. To do this, simply place the pizza in a freezer-safe bag or container, then label and date it. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the pizza overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave. Be aware, however, that freezing can cause the pizza to become dry and crumbly – to prevent this, try wrapping the pizza in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Cooking Totino’s Pizzas on a Pizza Stone
Cooking Totino’s pizzas on a pizza stone can be a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their pizza game. To do this, simply place the pizza on the stone, then cook it in the microwave for an additional 30-60 seconds. The stone will help distribute heat evenly and promote a crispy crust. You can also try broiling the pizza for an additional 1-2 minutes to give it a golden brown crust.
Preventing Sogginess in the Center
One of the biggest challenges when cooking Totino’s pizzas is preventing sogginess in the center. To do this, try placing a paper towel over the pizza while it cooks – this will help absorb excess moisture and promote a crisper crust. You can also try cooking the pizza for a shorter amount of time, then checking the crust and toppings to see if it’s done to your liking. Finally, be aware that using too many toppings can cause the pizza to become soggy – to prevent this, try using a lighter hand when adding toppings.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Totino’s pizzas, the possibilities are endless. Some popular options include serving it with a side salad or soup, or using it as a base for a gourmet pizza. You can also try serving it with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara or ranch dressing. One of the best things about Totino’s pizzas is that they’re incredibly versatile – so don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things!
How to Tell When a Totino’s Pizza is Done
When cooking a Totino’s pizza, it’s essential to know when it’s done. To do this, simply check the crust and toppings – if the crust is golden brown and the toppings are heated through, it’s ready to eat. You can also try using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pizza – most frozen pizzas should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
Cooking Totino’s Pizzas on a Grill
While Totino’s pizzas are typically cooked in the microwave, you can also try cooking them on a grill. To do this, simply place the pizza on the grill, then cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are heated through. Be aware, however, that grilling can cause the pizza to become dry and crispy – to prevent this, try brushing the pizza with olive oil before cooking.
Storing Totino’s Pizzas
When it comes to storing Totino’s pizzas, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to store the pizzas in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Next, label and date the pizzas so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored. Finally, be aware that frozen pizzas can become dry and crumbly after a few months – to prevent this, try consuming them within 3-6 months of freezing.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to cook a Totino’s pizza in the oven?
To cook a Totino’s pizza in the oven, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone, then bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are heated through. You can also try broiling the pizza for an additional 1-2 minutes to give it a golden brown crust.
Can I cook a Totino’s pizza in a toaster oven?
Yes, you can cook a Totino’s pizza in a toaster oven. Simply place the pizza in the oven, then cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are heated through. Be aware, however, that toaster ovens can cook more quickly than regular ovens, so keep an eye on the pizza to prevent burning.
How do I reheat a frozen Totino’s pizza?
To reheat a frozen Totino’s pizza, simply place it in the microwave and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are heated through. You can also try reheating the pizza in the oven or toaster oven, following the same instructions as above.
Can I make my own Totino’s-style pizzas from scratch?
Yes, you can make your own Totino’s-style pizzas from scratch. To do this, simply make your own pizza dough and sauce, then top with your favorite toppings. Bake the pizza in the oven following the same instructions as above. Be aware, however, that homemade pizzas can take longer to make than frozen ones – so plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time.
Are Totino’s pizzas gluten-free?
No, Totino’s pizzas are not gluten-free. However, they do offer a gluten-free pizza option in some areas. To find out if this option is available in your area, simply check the company’s website or contact their customer service department.